Inside Judicial Sales: How Yacht Auctions Really Work

Text us your ideas and feedback!

Thinking about bidding on a seized superyacht? We walk through the real mechanics of judicial sales—what triggers them, how courts run them, and why a properly executed auction can deliver title that holds up worldwide. From sanctions stories like Amadea to bread‑and‑butter arrests for unpaid crew wages, we separate media myths from the rules that actually govern these high‑stakes transactions.

We explain why the U.S. Marshal process is considered the gold standard under the Supplemental Rules for Admiralty and Maritime Claims, including publication, bidding requirements, deposits, and post‑sale confirmation. You’ll hear how foreign courts assess fairness and why cases like Blue Star in Malta matter for cross‑border recognition. We also dig into the uncomfortable stuff, especially how courts judge “prudent” buyers who ignore red flags and chase a bargain. If you’ve ever wondered how KYC, sanctions lists, and source‑of‑funds checks shape who gets to bid, we’ve got stories and specifics.

Finally, being able to conduct a sea trial or survey before bidding is likely impossible, so we share practical due diligence tactics: interviewing crew and former managers, tracing ownership records, and more. We also confront the reality of zombie yachts—uncrewed, uninsured, and decaying fast—and what happens when they result from a judicial sale order. Finally, we outline bidder responsibilities at the courthouse steps, why misrepresenting a principal is a fast track to trouble, and how to make sure the yacht you buy stays yours to enjoy.

If this helped you navigate the world of yacht auctions, follow the show, share it with a friend in the industry, and leave a quick review telling us your biggest auction question.

Have a yacht law question? Email it to [email protected] or [email protected] for your chance to have it answered on our podcast. All requests for confidentiality and/or anonymity are respected.

Hiring a lawyer is a big decision. Visit Moore & Company for the legal team's qualifications and experience. And, to learn the latest about superyacht launches, shipyards, designs, and destinations, visit Megayacht News.